Southern Oregon University is among schools with the highest use of green power, according to a news release from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Nine northwest colleges in the College & University Green Power Challenge are among the nation's highest in green power use, including SOU, University of Washington, Oregon State University, Western Washington University, Gonzaga University, Evergreen State College, Lewis & Clark College, Pacific Lutheran University, and Whitman College.

Green power includes electricity produced from solar, wind, geothermal, biogas, eligible biomass, and low-impact small hydroelectric sources.

"We applaud the leadership demonstrated by organizations that are helping reduce carbon pollution and spur the growth of clean, American-made energy sources by increasing their use of renewable energy," EPA Acting Administrator Bob Perciasepe said in a prepared statement. "As President Obama has made clear, clean energy is critical to our health, our economy, our security, and our ability to effectively address climate change."